LOS ANGELES – The Lakers have a clear path to add depth in the frontcourt. They can sign Kai Jones on a training camp deal or two-way contract. If Jones signs with an European team, Los Angeles would need him released before making an offer. Jones’s status remains fluid.
While some reports linked him to Virtus Bologna, credible sources insist those claims are false. According to reliable insider account Aryreport on X, Jones is focused on staying in the NBA. His camp prefers either a standard deal or a training camp invite with a chance to earn a roster spot.
Lakers Have No-Brainer Kai Jones Solution For Last Two-Way Spot
Roster Math Works in His Favor
NBA rules allow teams to bring 21 players into training camp. That number includes Exhibit-10 contracts, which can convert to G League deals with bonuses. Two-way contracts offer another route, allowing up to 50 NBA games in a season.
The Lakers have two of three two-way spots filled. Christian Koloko and Trey Jemison occupy them but barely played under coach JJ Redick last season. That leaves one open slot and flexibility for a training camp addition.
If the Lakers want Kai Jones on a two-way, the opening is there. If they prefer an Exhibit-10 deal, roster limits are no obstacle. Either way, the move makes basketball and cap sense.
Why Jones Fits
Los Angeles added Deandre Ayton in free agency. But Ayton prefers mid-post touches over rim-running. The Lakers need an athletic, rim-protecting big to complement Luka Doncic.
Jones showed flashes with the Mavericks and Clippers last season. In 40 games, he averaged 5.0 points and 3.1 rebounds in under 12 minutes. His March surge — 12.1 points and 7.5 rebounds on 84% shooting — revealed his efficiency.
Defensively, lineups with Jones allowed eight fewer points per possession. That placed him in the 95th percentile for impact. The Lakers need that level of rim deterrence.
Proven in Short Bursts
Jones’s Mavericks stint included double-doubles and highlight blocks. He scored 21 points with eight rebounds in his debut. He followed an injury absence with an 18-point, 11-rebound game.
Given his athleticism and defensive metrics, Kai Jones on the Lakers should be a no-brainer. For a team needing frontcourt insurance, the fit is almost too obvious.
If Los Angeles wants a low-risk, high-upside move, this is the time. The Lakers have the slot, the need, and the leverage to make it happen.
The rest depends on whether Jones remains stateside.
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